Encyclopedia of Espionage, Intelligence, and Security

IDENT (Automated Biometric Identification System)

The Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT) is a database system
using automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS) technology as
part of programs supervised by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
that intend to thwart illegal entry into the United States by criminal
aliens.

IDENT was implemented on a trial basis in 1994 and put into wide use by
1998. In August 1998, INS IDENT mangers established standardized policies
on the use of IDENT but for financial reasons decided not to include
historical data in the IDENT database. Accordingly, IDENT queries were
limited to returns of data acquired since IDENT implementation. By 1999,
approximately 1.8 million biometrics were keyed into the IDENT
"recidivist" (repeat offender) database.

The IDENT system biometrics includes photos and the two index finger
fingerprints (entered via a portable Touch View fingerprint reader) of
individuals previously apprehended by border and immigration agents. That
data is augmented by available data on the individual's criminal
history. With this data IDENT provides access to both a recidivist
database and a "lookout" database for criminal offenders.

IDENT fingerprint searches of the two databases normally takes only a few
minutes. IDENT fingerprint matching is based upon a numerical score
derived from degrees of relationship in standard fingerprint
characteristics. An IDENT terminal then provides agents with photographs
and fingerprint displays of individuals under examination alongside
photographs and fingerprints of potential matches. This final visual
matching is key because, especially under field conditions, fingerprint
analysis is often hampered by dirt on the alien's fingers or the
scanner.

Records are ultimately linked to a unique fingerprint identification
number (FIN) for each alien. The IDENT fingerprinting technology does not
require ink, but uses a machine that scans and digitizes prints before
transferring them to a standard ten-print card and storing them in the
electronic database.

Use of the IDENT system is critical because studies have shown that
apprehended illegal aliens often attempt to falsify their identity by
providing a fictitious name and/or a birthdate. As of March 2003, the
IDENT database contained records on more than 400,000 aliens who had a
history of attempted illegal entry and a criminal history that precluded
their entry into the U.S. Prior to DHS reorganization, INS and Border
Patrol agents had detained more than 75,000 individuals based on IDENT
data.

The IDENT system can also provide basic identification information that
allows access to several other security and law enforcement databases
including, but not limited to, the Central Index System (CIS), National
Automated Immigration Lookout System II (NAILS), Deportable Alien Control
System (DACS), National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, and the
Treasury Enforcement Communication System (TECS). Under pending security
proposals the IDENT database and system may be fused with the Integrated
Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) used by the FBI.

As of March 1, 2003, the newly created United States Department of
Homeland Security (DHS) absorbed the former Immigration and Naturalization
Service (INS). All INS border patrol agents and investigators—along
with agents from the U.S. Customs Service and Transportation Security
Administration—were placed under the direction of the DHS
Directorate of Border and Transportation Security (BTS). Responsibility
for U.S. border security and the enforcement of immigration laws was
transferred to BTS.

BTS is scheduled to incorporate the United States Customs Service
(previously part of the Department of Treasury), and the enforcement
division of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (previously part of
the Department of Justice). Former INS immigration service functions are
scheduled to be placed under the direction of the DHS Bureau of
Citizenship and Immigration Services. Under the reorganization the INS
formally ceases to exist on the date the last of its functions are
transferred.

Although the technologies involved in the IDENT entry security program
remained stable, in an effort to facilitate border security, BTS plans to
establish higher levels of coordination between formerly separate agencies
and databases. As of April 2003, the specific coordination and future of
the IDENT program was uncertain with regard to name changes, program
administration, and policy changes.